Shaktar Donetsk’s 20 year old midfielder Douglas Costa, a long time target for Manchester United has again been linked with the Premier League leaders. (The Metro)

Before signing for Shaktar in January 2010 the former Gremio star was on Manchester United’s radar, however, any potential deal collapsed at the time, paving the way for his move to the Ukraine.

Costa has been given comparisons to Ronaldinho in the past and his skill and flair is something Sir Alex Ferguson wants to see at Old Trafford. Rumours intensified when Costa watched Man United’s 1-0 victory over Bolton in the director’s box in March this year.

The young Brazilian’s agent, Cesar Bottega, has confirmed United’s interest in his player, claiming, “Manchester United have liked him for a long time and although Shakhtar are a good team and are doing very well, it is normal that if we get important offers for the player, these will be taken into account”.

United won’t be the only club after the services of Costa, he has also generated interest from Italy. Bottega went onto say “There is much interest around Douglas - he was one of the best young players in this season's Champions League. Several clubs are following him and there was some contact, but no concrete proposal has yet arrived.”

The Metro claimed Man City may want to hijack any United bid for the player, and with a £20 million valuation on Costa, he is likely to be hot property this summer.